Web Search Tools > 2: Browse the Best Sites

2A: About Web Directories

Using a Web Directory is like browsing in a large library or bookstore, where best-selling books on the same topic are conveniently grouped together. Use a Directory when you want to explore what's available on a topic.

- - - Characteristics of Web Directories:

1. Selective: They are a collection of sites that have been selected by Directory editors.

2. Browse: They can be browsed by subject categories, which are usually arranged in a hierarchy, starting with the broadest or most general one (as shown below). Click on a category name to begin browsing.

   
   Computers
           Internet
                  Software
                          E-mail
   

3. Search: In addition to browsing, you can also search within most Directories. Your search words are matched against:
   • site titles
   • subject categories
   • short, descriptive summaries of sites

See a Movie

Watch Web Directories. [opens in new window]

2B: Types of Web Directories

Some examples:

• General -- cover all subjects

  Intute
  Librarians' Internet Index
  Open Directory Project
  Yahoo! Directory

• Topical -- cover one area in depth

  Construction WebLinks
  FindLaw
  Healthfinder.gov

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